Looking for your next creative day out? We asked some of Britain's most talented artisans to share the places that inspire them, from bustling makers' markets and independent galleries to craft centres and hidden gems.
Leading the recommendations is Dame Emma Bridgewater, who reveals the Welsh landscapes, woollen mills and much-loved shops that have captured her imagination, while makers from our artisan community share their favourite corners of Britain to explore.
Top UK spot for craft
Wales
This area of the UK comes recommended by Dame Emma Bridgewater. She tells us: “I’ve discovered more of Wales of late, including some staggeringly wonderful walks on Offa’s Dyke from the north coast through the Clwydian hills. I have been bowled over by its beauty. Exploring this country has led to my fascination and obsession with Welsh woollen mills and blankets, which come in all kinds of colours and patterns and were traditionally given as a wedding gift designed to be passed down through the generations. Today, Carpenter and Cloth , one of Country Living’s approved artisans who I’ve been mentoring this year, is doing an amazing job making clothes and textiles from locally sourced Welsh fleece.
"The Great English Outdoors in Hay-on-Wye has long been a favourite shop of mine, with a brilliant range of old and contemporary Welsh woollen blankets. And if you can’t travel to Wales, Labour and Wait has a handful of shops in London and stocks a selection of Welsh blankets that I love. They also truffle out other delicious products and homeware you didn’t know you needed.”
Go-to galleries and shops
Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge
“Founders Jim and Helen Ede believed in art’s ability to transform lives, and craft is presented in a domestic context here alongside art. Highlights for me are Ben and Winifred Nicholson’s block-printed textiles.”
Nominated by illustrator Nicholas Hughes, Diddletron
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Gathered & Garner, Cumbria
“A treasure trove of artisan delights in Kirkby Lonsdale, where every wall holds a handpicked gem and every corner reveals a new discovery.”
Nominated by artist Helen Briggs, Helen Briggs Design
Show Off Gallery, Kent
“This vibrant pop-up space in Whitstable has an ever-changing display from different creatives, makers and designers each week. In a characterful street, it’s a place locals and visitors return to time and time again.”
Nominated by jewellery maker Nicola Spillett, Elsie & May Jewellery
Best craft markets
Craft in Focus fairs, nationwide
“A curated collection of the best of British craft and design, in stunning locations such as RHS Wisley, RHS Hyde Hall and Hever Castle.”
Nominated by embroidery artist Jo Butcher
Made in Shropshire, Shrewsbury
“This monthly market allows you to shop from, and meet, a carefully selected group of makers and producers in among Shrewsbury’s quaint streets, historic buildings and independent shops.”
Nominated by Lisa Fox, founder, Fox & Boo
Local Makers Market, nationwide
“A welcoming, bright makers’ market in the heart of Norwich, and in various Cambridge and London locations, that is always unpretentious and accessible. Visiting feels like a treat every time I go.”
Nominated by printmaker Pamela Haining, Adventures in Print
Standout craft centres
Made in Stirling, central Scotland
“A showcase of talented makers of art, jewellery and more, along with exhibitions, seasonal markets and workshops.”
Nominated by potter Rebecca Rowthorn, Lochard Clay
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Snape Maltings, Suffolk
“Set amid reed beds, the centre has artisan shops, galleries, demonstrations and concerts.”
Nominated by jewellery maker Sue Studd, The Magic of Fireflies and Dragonflies
Maker Heights, Cornwall
“Artists’ studios, shops, a gallery and a café are perched on the Rame Peninsula, with sea views all around. Observe makers at work or join a craft demonstration, with endless walks nearby.”
Nominated by homeware designer Helen Round
Artisans editor Cara Laskaris's top shops
“Shere, where I grew up, has two places I love. Split Figs has glorious homeware, accessories and vintage furniture, while Shere Pottage is my go-to for eco-friendly gems, cards and children’s gifts.”
